Antoninian of Postumus (AD 260–269), struck at the mint of Lugdunum around AD 260, belongs to the earliest issues of the Gallic Empire, produced immediately after Postumus assumed control over the western provinces.
The obverse presents a radiate, draped and cuirassed bust facing right, with the legend IMP C POSTVMVS P F AVG, giving his full titulature as Pius Felix Augustus.
The reverse depicts the emperor standing left, holding a globe and spear, with the legend P M TR P COS II P P. This type belongs to the standard imperial iconographic repertoire in which the globe signifies dominion over the world, while the spear represents military authority and the emperor’s role as commander. The combination of these attributes conveys a clear statement of sovereign power (imperium) and the capacity to defend it.
The reverse legend contains an expanded titulature Pontifex Maximus, tribunicia potestas, consul for the second time, and Pater Patriae which allows the issue to be placed within the early phase of his reign. The prompt adoption of full imperial titles by Postumus is well attested in the numismatic record and reflects a deliberate strategy of legitimization, presenting himself as a fully constituted ruler rather than a provisional claimant to power.
Roman Imperial
Postumus (260-269), Antoninianus 260, Lugdunum mint
Obverse: radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Postumus right
IMP C POSTVMVS P F AVG
Obverse: Postumus standing left, holding globe and spear
P M TR P COS II P P
Diameter 22 mm, weight 2.89 g
